News about the Summer and Winter Games

Ryan Getzlaf: 'I'm the happiest guy here'

February 15, 2010 | 6:30
pm

Ducks center Ryan Getzlaf went through two final and rigorous examinations of his sprained left ankle, one Sunday night and another Monday morning, before Team Canada executives decided he was fit enough to keep his spot on the Canadian Olympic roster. "I’m the happiest guy here, that’s for sure," Getzlaf said after practicing with his teammates, centering for Ducks teammate Corey Perry and Carolina's Eric Staal.

Getzlaf sprained his ankle last Monday and didn't return to the Ducks' lineup until Sunday night. Team Canada had told the Flyers' Jeff Carterto travel to Vancouver and be on standby in case Getzlaf couldn't play, but Carter was sent home Monday afternoon

"When it first happened it was one of the scariest things I’ve been through. And it was one of the hardest things I’ve done," Getzlaf said. "The last week hasn’t been easy and I’m so relieved just to get on the ice with the guys again."